Science

CRISPR study questions everything we know about “love hormone” oxytocin

Using gene editing, researchers have engineered prairie voles with no oxytocin receptors. These monogamous mammals were thought to rely on oxytocin to form social bonds but new results suggest this "love hormone" may be less important than suspected.

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Pop Rocks and molecular gastronomy inspire new tumor-fighting foam

Using the same whipping siphon used in the culinary world, researchers have created a food-based foam that can be injected directly into tumors. The foam contains oxygen, which makes tumors more susceptible to chemotherapy and radiation treatments.

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Genetically modified worms glow in the presence of indoor air pollution

Although the air in our homes or workplaces may seem OK, it might contain harmful compounds emitted by materials like particleboard and carpeting. New research suggests that we may soon be able to tell if that is the case, using tiny glowing worms.

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Multi-layer “liquid window” tech could help buildings save energy

There are already "smart" windows that can be electronically switched between either letting sunlight through or blocking it. A new multi-layered one, however, can be set to several energy-saving light filtration modes.

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Acid coating converts regular electrolyzers to split seawater

Green hydrogen is going to demand a lot of water for electrolysis – nine liters of pure water for every kilogram of hydrogen. Researchers say they've found a simple way to use seawater in standard electrolyzers, and that's big news for clean energy.

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Single-celled bacteria exhibit previously unknown “multicellularity”

E. coli is arguably the most well-studied organism on Earth, but scientists have now discovered a new behavior that’s almost never seen in bacteria. The normally single-celled organisms have shown signs of previously unknown multicellular phases.

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First human trial for experimental Marburg virus vaccine reports success

Promising results have been published from the first human trial testing an experimental vaccine targeting the deadly Marburg virus. Flagged as a potential pandemic-causing virus, this is the first Marburg vaccine to move into Phase 2 human trials.

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Study shows that milk’s flavor may be affected by packaging material

When it comes to different types of milk containers, you may think that the only reasons to choose one over the other would be factors like convenience. New research, however, suggests that container material type can actually affect milk's flavor.

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Potentially useful new microalgae discovered in a home aquarium

Microalgae are widely used in products such as biofuels, nutritional supplements and cosmetics. A newly-described type has been found in a home aquarium – and it could prove to be particularly useful.

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Cladding could regulate building temps by solidifying and liquefying

Seeking a passive way to keep buildings cool in hot weather and warmer in the colder months, researchers have developed a new electrochromic shape-shifting material. It switches from solid to liquid and from clear to opaque at set temperatures.

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